Dental Crowns in Santa Monica
A tooth that is broken, damaged, or in general poor condition can be harmful to your health. It can also affect feeling comfortable about your tooth and your self-confidence.
Dental crowns are almost exactly the way they sound – a crown, or cap, for your tooth. Dental crowns help restore a tooth– resulting in a truly aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Here are some of the reasons you need a dental crown:
Reasons for crowns:
- Tooth that is broken or fractured.
- Decayed teeth.
- Cosmetic Benefits.
- Large or Fractured fillings.
- Root canal.
Restore Your Smile Today
Crowns also replace severe cases of tooth decay that have resulted in a large amount of tooth loss. Crowns allow dentists to restore form and function to your tooth without needing to perform an extraction. It is always best to save as much real tooth/enamel as possible.
The Dental Crown Placement Process
This process begins with a consult and exam where we develop a plan for you. We take dental impressions to ensure a precise fit for your tooth. We also treat and resolve any decay or infection prior to placement of the crown.
Once the impressions are ready for your tooth, we place the crown for a proper fit. Once your crown is fitted appropriately, you can again be confident about your dental health and your amazing smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over an existing tooth to restore its size, shape, strength, and appearance. It encases the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline and is permanently cemented in place.
2. When is a dental crown necessary?
Crowns are recommended when a tooth is severely decayed, cracked, or fractured beyond what a filling can repair; after a root canal to protect the treated tooth; to restore a broken or worn-down tooth; or to cover a dental implant.
3. What types of crowns are available?
The most common types are all-ceramic or porcelain crowns (best for aesthetics), porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns (strong with a natural look), and full metal or gold crowns (extremely durable, often used for back teeth). Dr. Sadat will recommend the best material based on the location and function of the tooth.
4. How long does it take to get a crown?
At Santa Monica Dental Studio, we use CAD/CAM technology to offer same-day crowns for many patients. Traditional crown placement requires two appointments: one to prepare the tooth and place a temporary crown, and a second to cement the permanent crown once it returns from the lab.
5. Does getting a crown hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the appointment. Some sensitivity or discomfort around the treated tooth is normal for a few days afterward and typically resolves on its own.
6. How long do dental crowns last?
With proper care, dental crowns typically last ten to fifteen years or longer. Their longevity depends on the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and whether you grind or clench your teeth. Regular checkups allow us to monitor the crown and address any concerns early.
7. Will my crown look natural?
Yes. Modern ceramic and porcelain crowns are designed to closely match the color, shape, and translucency of your surrounding natural teeth. Dr. Sadat takes care to select the right shade and contour so that your crown blends seamlessly.
8. How do I care for a dental crown?
Care for a crown just as you would your natural teeth — brush twice daily, floss around the crown daily, and avoid habits that put excessive force on teeth such as chewing ice, biting nails, or grinding. If you grind at night, a custom night guard can protect your crown.
9. Can a crown fall off?
It is uncommon, but a crown can become loose or fall off if the underlying tooth structure has deteriorated, if the cement has washed out, or if the crown was subjected to unusual force. If this happens, keep the crown safe and contact our office promptly.
10. Is a crown the same as a cap?
Yes — 'crown' and 'cap' refer to the same restoration. 'Cap' is simply an older, more informal term for the same procedure.
11. Do I need a crown after a root canal?
In most cases, yes. A root canal removes the inner pulp tissue from the tooth, which can leave it more brittle and susceptible to fracture. A crown provides the protection needed to keep the tooth functional and intact for years to come.
12. What is a temporary crown and why do I need one?
A temporary crown is a short-term restoration placed over your prepared tooth while your permanent crown is being fabricated. It protects the tooth, maintains its position, and allows you to chew normally between appointments. Avoid sticky or hard foods while wearing a temporary.
13. Can a crown be placed on any tooth?
Crowns can be placed on most teeth as long as there is sufficient remaining tooth structure to support them. If the damage is too extensive, a build-up — additional material used to rebuild the tooth's core — may be placed before the crown.
14. What is the difference between a crown and a veneer?
A veneer covers only the front surface of a tooth and requires minimal tooth reduction. A crown covers the entire tooth and is used when the tooth needs more structural support. Veneers are primarily cosmetic; crowns serve both cosmetic and restorative purposes.
15. Is getting a crown covered by dental insurance?
Dental insurance typically covers a portion of crown costs when the treatment is deemed medically necessary — for example, to restore a broken or severely decayed tooth. Crowns placed purely for cosmetic reasons may not be covered. Our team will verify your benefits prior to treatment.